Community sports programs are a growing component of healthy & active communities. From around the globe, local governments, schools and non-profit organizations are investing in sports activities that are unifying, regardless of age, gender, or background. Children, youth, adults, and senior citizens can enjoy the benefits of these programs not only for keeping them physically active, but also to acquire important life skills. Such community sports are thought to increase physical health and enhance social relationships, decrease stress and make neighborhoods safer.

Sports enhance both the physical and mental health:

Sports have a positive effect on physical and mental health.Sports are one of the ways in which regular participation helps people to keep a healthy lifestyle. Football, cricket, volleyball, cycling and walking are all good for the heart, building muscles and helping to prevent diseases like obesity and diabetes. Exercise also has a positive impact on mental health due to its ability to reduce stress, anxiety and depression. People are encouraged to do sports by health professionals because of the reasons that exercise enhances their energy levels, sleep and their self-confidence. In addition, sports instil discipline and good habits at an early age for children and teens.

Working together to build strong communities:

Community sport is a cohesive activity that connects and facilitates collaboration. Local tournaments, school competitions and neighborhood sports events offer time for families and friends to meet and share in each others' activities. These activities promote trust and social cohesion within community. Respect, fairness, leadership, teamwork and responsibility are other values that are learnt from sports. In many communities, it has been discovered that sport programmes are effective in holding young people in a positive activity and in minimising antisocial behaviour.

The challenge and the need for further investments will be discussed:

Despite the many benefits of community sports, the number of community sport sites that do not have adequate playgrounds, sports equipment, trained coaches or financial support is still high. Further problems may arise in rural communities due to less availability of facilities. The above cited experts call for greater investment in access to sports infrastructure, equal opportunities for girls and boys and access to recreation activities at affordable prices. Inter-agency, inter-sectoral and inter-government collaborations can facilitate a greater reach of sports programs and increased benefit to more people.

Active Communities and a Healthy Future:

The ongoing public support and involvement is essential for the future of community sports. Keeping people active is a strategy that can lower health care costs, enhance the quality of life and make communities happier. Sports can be a daily part of life to foster healthier people and healthier societies. Each match, each child encouraged and each new sports facility developed is a step toward a brighter, healthier future.

Community sports programs are much more than recreational activities. They are health promoters, community builders, and instigators of lifelong values that are conducive to individuals and society. Further investment in local sports programmes will lead to healthier citizens, social cohesion and inspire future generations to lead active and responsible lifestyles.